Chelsea ready to go big in Japan with Yokohama friendly

Gonzalo Higuain goal Chelsea v Fulham

Chelsea will take on J-League champions Kawasaki Frontale in Yokohama in July as part of their pre-season build up.

The Premier League side announced the opponents for the match at the International Stadium on July 19 as the first confirmed fixture in the run-up to the 2019/2020 season.

The Blues are set to return to Japan having played at the 2012 FIFA Club World Cup, where they finished as runners-up to Brazilian side Corinthians.

The game in Yokohama will take place at the same venue as the 2019 Rugby Union World Cup final.

Chelsea chairman Bruce Buck said: We are delighted to be returning to Japan after almost seven years and we also thank the J-League for their cooperation in organising the game.

“We are sure Kawasaki Frontale will provide high-level opposition at a noisy and passionate International Stadium as we prepare for the season ahead.”

It remains to be seen who the Chelsea manager will be heading into next season, with Maurizio Sarri’s position under scrutiny. The Blues manager admitted he had “no answer” to their poor second-half showing during Sunday’s 2-0 loss at Everton that left the Italian’s side three points adrift of fourth-placed Arsenal in the Premier League.

However, Chelsea remain very much in contention for Europa League success and are set to play Slavia Prague for a place in the semi-finals.

 

Get the latest personalised Blues products on our new TEAMtalk Chelsea shop!